Alright, listen up! Date night is sneaking up on us, so let's hunt down the perfect spot for some quality time with your crush. Here are some fierce suggestions for queer-friendly hangouts around LA where you can vibe with your boo.
LessThis neighborhood spot is a queer-women-led restaurant for great Mediterranean eats. Rustic and cozy, Kismet is perfect for a casual, delicious date night meal this Valentine's. The restaurant prides itself on “a commitment to refined, restrained technique and top-quality farmers market produce”.
Precinct is a club that LGBTQ young professionals frequent in LA. You’ll never be bored with the wide variety of activities throughout the week - RuPaul’s Drag Race Watch Parties are a regular favorite. Be sure to check the calendar on their website to see the daily lineup - they're not open on Mondays but this option is for those weekend Valentine's plans. The menu includes burgers, salads, pastries, and drinks for a fun queer club experience.
Fred62 is located near independent bookshop Skylight Books, known for its extensive LGBTQ+ book collection. It's the quintessential 50s diner with a few modern tweaks to elevate the decor and the menu. This spot stays open late for those whose Valentine's Day celebrations tend to run into the evening, and it serves up its American comfort food all day. Snuggle up to your bae in a cozy, quiet booth and do things a little differently this year!
Also known as “Ginger Rogers” this is the only gay beach in LA. This is a great date for a warmer day where you can lay out, be in the sun or spend some time in the ocean. Bring some food for a picnic and you have a great free date idea!
The Black Cat is famous for playing a significant role in the 1960 LGBTQ Civil Rights movement as a gay bar that was often subject to police raids. Soak in some LGBTQ history this Valentine's and celebrate the many freedoms our community now has. Now a gastropub, they offer elevated American comfort food and a vibe steeped in the revolution of the 60s.
Micky’s is a gay bar residing in West Hollywood. For all the couples who love to dance they set up a dance floor every night. Expect to hear Top 40 Hits, Hip Hop, and Latin music, to name a few selections. Every Monday, they have a drag show night, starting with Project Drag, a competition where winners can win prizes, into drag performance Showgirls. Complete the night by grabbing something quick to eat, such as the delicious tacos.
Plant-based restaurant, Jewel, boasts a delicious mashup of Asian and American-inspired cuisine. It's also a queer, women-owned establishment that offers a variety of plant-based options that include Jewel's Tempeh Bacon and a tofu scramble. The ambiance at Jewel is 70s vintage, with lots of light during the day. Support the LGBTQ+ community and the planet this Valentine's by exploring the variety Jewel's plant-based menu can afford.
Once surrounded by bathhouses and leather bars, Casita del Campo has been a staple for the queer community since it opened in 1962. Known for events like its cabaret theater, it serves up a menu filled with Mexican staples. Go for the history, the seriously good eats, and the "West Side Story" memorabilia that has its own story.
Revolver Video Bar is a great place for queer couples to enjoy themselves. On weekdays karaoke and drag shows are regular. There’s also a daily happy hour with $6 well drinks, $5 wine, and $3 tequila or vodka.
The non-binary owner/chef of Gracias Madre serves up a plant-based Mexican meal that will make you want to go back again. They also serve great custom cocktails with their small-batch mezcal and tequila bar. The focus for Gracias Madre is to honor the planet and take advantage of local produce. In their own words, "Pull up a chair- there’s always a seat at Love’s table."